The Best Texas Cities to Move To in 2026: Why DFW Suburbs Dominated the Rankings
If you’ve been thinking about relocating to Texas, there’s one thing becoming very clear: the Dallas-Fort Worth metroplex continues to lead the way.
ConsumerAffairs recently released their rankings of the 50 best Texas cities to move to, and DFW suburbs absolutely dominated the list claiming six of the top ten spots, including all four of the top positions.
But here’s what makes this even more interesting: each suburb earned its place for very different reasons.
Some stand out for top-rated schools and booming economies. Others offer affordability, walkability, charm, or easier commutes. And depending on your lifestyle, family needs, and budget, the “best” city for you may not actually be the highest-ranked one.
Let’s break down the six DFW suburbs that made the list and what type of buyer each city is best suited for.
1. Allen — The #1 Ranked City in Texas
Allen took the top spot overall, and it’s easy to see why.
This suburb consistently performs well across nearly every category: safety, education, parks, healthcare access, and quality of life. One standout statistic was the city’s high percentage of residents living within walking distance of a park, making it incredibly appealing for families and active lifestyles.
Allen offers:
- Highly rated schools
- Family-friendly neighborhoods
- Extensive parks and trails
- Strong retail and dining options
- Convenient access to major highways
Best For:
Families looking for a balanced suburban lifestyle with strong schools, outdoor amenities, and a community-oriented atmosphere.
Things to Consider:
Home prices in Allen have risen significantly over the last several years, so buyers may need a larger budget compared to some neighboring suburbs.
2. Frisco — The Education and Growth Powerhouse
Frisco continues to be one of the fastest-growing and most sought-after cities in Texas.
One major reason it ranked so highly was its impressive 97.7% high school completion rate, reflecting the city’s strong emphasis on education and opportunity.
Frisco is also known for:
- Master-planned communities
- Corporate headquarters and job growth
- Sports and entertainment districts
- Luxury housing options
- Modern infrastructure
Best For:
Professionals, growing families, and buyers who want newer homes, strong appreciation potential, and access to top-tier amenities.
Things to Consider:
With rapid growth comes higher home prices, traffic congestion, and increased competition in the housing market.
3. McKinney — Charm Meets Opportunity
McKinney offers something many fast-growing suburbs struggle to maintain: character.
Known for its charming historic downtown, tree-lined streets, and community feel, McKinney blends small-town atmosphere with big-city convenience.
Why buyers love McKinney:
- Beautiful historic district
- Strong schools
- Expanding job access
- Spacious neighborhoods
- Excellent community events and local businesses
Best For:
Buyers who want a more relaxed, community-focused environment without giving up access to the DFW job market.
Things to Consider:
Commute times can be longer depending on where you work in the metroplex.
4. Plano — The Established Corporate Hub
Plano remains one of the most established and stable suburbs in North Texas.
With major corporate headquarters, excellent healthcare systems, and consistently strong schools, Plano continues to attract professionals and relocating families from across the country.
Plano stands out for:
- Mature neighborhoods with large trees
- Strong local economy
- High-paying job opportunities
- Excellent dining and shopping
- Central location within DFW
Best For:
Professionals and families seeking stability, established neighborhoods, and shorter commutes to major employment centers.
Things to Consider:
Plano’s housing inventory can be more competitive, especially in highly sought-after school zones.
5. Richardson — Diversity, Tech, and Value
Richardson often flies under the radar compared to its northern neighbors, but it offers incredible value and accessibility.
Known for its diverse community and strong technology sector, Richardson gives buyers access to excellent employment opportunities while remaining more affordable than many nearby suburbs.
Highlights include:
- Strong tech employment presence
- Convenient central location
- Diverse dining and culture
- Access to public transportation
- More attainable price points
Best For:
First-time buyers, young professionals, and anyone wanting a more affordable option close to major employment hubs.
Things to Consider:
Some areas are older than neighboring suburbs, so buyers may need to prioritize updates versus newer construction.
6. Mansfield — Affordability and Space
Mansfield has become increasingly popular among buyers seeking more home for their money.
Located south of Arlington, Mansfield offers larger lots, newer communities, and a slower-paced suburban feel while still maintaining access to the broader DFW metro.
Why Mansfield made the list:
- Relative affordability
- Growing economy
- Family-friendly neighborhoods
- Expanding retail and dining
- Strong community atmosphere
Best For:
Families wanting larger homes, more space, and better affordability without leaving the metroplex entirely.
Things to Consider:
Commute times into Dallas can be longer depending on traffic and work location.
Which DFW Suburb Is Right for You?
The biggest takeaway from these rankings is that there’s no one-size-fits-all answer.
The “best” suburb depends entirely on your priorities:
- Want top schools and luxury amenities? Frisco may fit best.
- Looking for balance and parks? Allen stands out.
- Prefer charm and character? McKinney delivers.
- Need strong job access? Plano and Richardson shine.
- Want affordability and space? Mansfield deserves attention.
That’s what makes DFW such a powerful relocation market there truly is a suburb for almost every lifestyle and budget.
As more people continue moving to Texas, these cities are likely to remain some of the most competitive and desirable places to live in the state.
Dee Walton
469-715-3561
